Among the what must have been hundreds of books I read as a child, there were a few that really stood out to me. These were the authors that knew how to write in a way that appealed to kids, but also didn't make the mistake of dumbing down their content.
1. "A Series of Unfortunate Events"
Author Daniel Handler (AKA Lemony Snicket) had no qualms in breaking the fourth wall and informing his target audience at every available opportunity that A Series of Unfortunate Events is a dark and depressing book series for children that you should not read. He may have had a point, considering that the Baudelaire orphans, the main protagonists, often faced one misfortune after another, with no end in sight.
Dark as though it might be, however, this book series was also witty, filled with adventure, and had characters that you could root for. Violent, Klaus, and Sunny were resourceful, clever, kind, and overall great role models.
2. "Pendragon"
Although Pendragon doesn't have its own Netflix original show or movie (yet), this is a book series that effortlessly weaves science fiction, fantasy, and history into one fantastic, action-packed tale about a 14-year old boy named Bobby who basically has to rescue not only his world, but several others from imminent destruction. No pressure.
This series doesn't pull any punches. It's violent, suspenseful, gritty, and will have any kid turning the pages wondering what's going to happen next.
3. "Diary of a Wimpy Kid"
While the protagonist of this particular series, Greg Heffley, may not be the perfect role models for kids (or adults) in that one of his favorite pastimes is making his best friend ride a big wheel down a hill while trying to hit him with a football, or putting off his homework, there's no denying that he is relatable.
We all have our moments when we'd rather watch TV than do our work, or want to sleep in until three in the afternoon, and Greg Heffley is the living embodiment of these moments. While sarcastic, mischievous, and somewhat selfish, deep down it's clear that Greg is a good kid and a reminder to all of us that nobody is perfect.
